
St. Francis and the Story of the First Nativity Scene
St. Francis’ meditations on the life of Christ led him to create the first-ever Nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223.
St. Francis’ meditations on the life of Christ led him to create the first-ever Nativity scene in Greccio, Italy, in 1223.
The display is from Murcia, a region in southeastern Spain with a great tradition of Nativity scenes and imagery.
The Nativity scene was made by the combined effort of more than 30 artisans. It features the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph, wearing large golden crowns, in a stable with the Baby Jesus surrounded by angels.
To send a clear message to the Supreme Court, Cortés encouraged people to set up Nativity scenes early, take photos of them, and upload them on social media.
An array of crèches are on display from around the world.
See more Peruvian crèches in light of this year’s Vatican scene.
Held outside the St. Vincent de Paul Chapel, Sunday's observance featured carols and scripture readings; costumed shepherds, wise men, and the Holy Family; hot chocolate and humongous home-baked cookies … and one very cool camel, among assorted other animals.
“I like to see the Nativity reflected in so many different ways,” says Father Adrian Farrelly, a collector of crèches from around the world.
From malls and front yards to billboards and state capitols, Jesus’ presence is evident.
COMMENTARY: Pope Francis’ latest apostolic letter treats the crèche as a particularly effective means of making the Gospel come alive, especially for children, but not only for them.
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